Final answer:
A flame scanner is an engineering device used in industrial applications to detect flames and ensure safety in systems like oil burners. It shuts down the burner if no flame is detected to prevent accidents. Ultraviolet and infrared sensors are commonly used in these devices for accurate detection.
Step-by-step explanation:
A flame scanner is a device used primarily in industrial settings to detect the presence of a flame in a burner and ensure proper operation of the system. In an oil burner application, the flame scanner serves a critical safety function. When the scanner detects a flame, it allows the system to continue operating normally, because the presence of a flame indicates that fuel is being combusted as expected. If the scanner does not detect a flame, it initiates a shutdown procedure to prevent the accumulation of unburned fuel, which could lead to a dangerous situation such as an explosion or fire. Flame scanners use various technologies to sense flames, including ultraviolet (UV) detectors, infrared (IR) sensors, or combination UV/IR sensors, to provide reliable and prompt detection.
These safety devices are vital in settings where flames are used for heating or processing materials, as they can help prevent costly and dangerous accidents. The design of a flame scanner enables it to be precise in detecting the specific spectral characteristics of a flame, thus avoiding false alarms that could be triggered by other light sources or heat. Proper maintenance and calibration of flame scanners are essential for them to function effectively and provide the necessary level of safety in industrial operations.